Lib Dems’ Plan to Fix Failing Services in North East Lincolnshire

North East Lincolnshire should be a place where people feel safe, supported, and able to get on with their lives. That means services that work, streets that are properly maintained, and a council that takes responsibility for delivering the basics well.

Right now, too many residents feel that is not happening. Roads and pavements are deteriorating, development is going ahead without enough thought for local communities, and poorly managed HMOs are placing strain on neighbourhoods. At the same time, many households are already under pressure from the rising cost of living.

These are everyday issues that affect how people live, travel, and feel in their communities, and they need a council that is focused, responsive, and prepared to act.

A Liberal Democrat council would start with a clear priority of delivering reliable, day-to-day services that residents can depend on.

That begins with a full overhaul of how highways and roadworks are managed. 

Too often, utility works and highways projects are carried out at the same time, with little coordination, causing unnecessary disruption and short-term fixes. The situation around Corporation Bridge has shown how poor planning and lack of oversight can affect journeys across the borough and waste public money. We would introduce proper coordination, earlier intervention, and clear accountability, ensuring safer roads and better value for money.

Footpaths would be treated with the same priority. Uneven surfaces and blocked routes create daily hazards, particularly for older residents and those with mobility needs. A borough-wide audit, targeted repairs would help keep routes safe.

Housing also needs a more balanced approach. Communities should feel stable and supported, but poorly managed HMOs can place pressure on local services and change the character of neighbourhoods. Stronger oversight, proper enforcement, and clearer planning controls are essential.

Selective licensing, introduced in East Marsh through Liberal Democrat campaigning, must now be properly enforced so it delivers real improvements, alongside a clear plan to expand it into other areas where needed. A Liberal Democrat-run council would also strengthen housing and planning policy, including the use of an Article 4 direction, to ensure development supports local communities rather than undermines them.

Community safety is a major concern for residents. Crime and anti-social behaviour are affecting daily life and making too many neighbourhoods feel less safe. Environmental crime only adds to that.

A more visible and consistent response is needed, with stronger enforcement, proper follow-through, and preventative action. Alongside this, there must be greater focus on early intervention and opportunities for young people, helping to prevent problems before they escalate.

We would also take practical steps to improve recycling. Liberal Democrat-led councils elsewhere achieve some of the highest recycling rates in the country. In North East Lincolnshire, rates remain around 38%, well below national ambitions of 60%. With better systems and clearer communication, we can make it easier for residents to recycle and improve performance.

Ultimately, this comes down to priorities. Services should work. Public money should deliver results. And residents should not have to chase the council to get things done.

That is the difference a Liberal Democrat council would deliver: a council that takes responsibility, gets the basics right, and focuses on improving everyday life for everyone.